Additional Prenatal Education

In a 1999 study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynecology, prenatal massage decreased anxiety and stress hormones, resulting in fewer obstetric and postnatal complications, including lower pre-maturity rates. Studies indicate that massage therapy performed during pregnancy can:Reduce Sciatic painReduce Edema related Carpal Tunnel SymptomsReduce round ligament/Pelvic PainReduce anxietyDecrease symptoms of depressionRelieve muscle aches and joint painsImprove labor outcomes and newborn health

Seven reasons massage helps during high risk pregnancy include its ability to:

  • Reduce stress, encourage healthful sleep and promote relaxation – especially needed during a high-risk pregnancy

  • Provide emotional support and physical nurturing – especially for those alone during their pregnancy or who feel scared because of their risk status

  • Reduces or alleviates neck, back and joint pain caused by posture, muscle weakness, tension, extra weight or imbalance – especially needed in women over age 35, who are obese or who are carrying multiple fetuses

  • Relieves muscle spasms, cramps and fibrosis – all of which can be intensified by several pregnancy risk factors

  • Via relaxation, reduces blood pressure – especially valuable to a woman with pre-eclampsia

  • Increase blood and lymph circulation which minimizes the edema, varicose veins and leg cramps common with pregnancy and exacerbated in many high-risk pregnancies

  • Encourage deeper and easier breathing – especially important for women with asthma or lung problems